Guayusa (pronounced gwy-you-sa) is a native tree leaf that has been brewed like tea by indigenous people in the Ecuadorian Amazon for thousands of years. Like our own morning ritual of waking up to a hot beverage, guayusa was traditionally prepared by families each day before the sun rose. They would sit around the fire drinking guards of guayusa together as the sun rises, sharing stories and myths; village elders teaching the youths about ancestors, social values, and hunting techniques. While it is not a tea, guayusa is prepared like one. The dried leaves of the caffeinated Amazonian holly tree (ilex guayusa) are dried and steeped in hot water. Guayusa does not contain the tannins found in tea, which means the flavor is not astringent or bitter; guayusa tastes silky and clean, with a sweet finish. Guayusa not only tastes good, it is good for you, with health benefits that range from physical to mental. The antioxidant benefits found in tea are doubled in guayusa. That means twice the free-radical fighting, anti-aging, cancer fighting benefits. Guayusa can boost more than just antioxidant properties, however; it contains a number of health boosting compounds! Beneficial Compounds Found in Guayusa Theobromine is a compound found in raw chocolate, it can reduce inflammation and blood pressure while acting as a diuretic. Polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins are phyto-chemicals believed to have cancer fighting benefits, and are potent antioxidants that reduce inflammation while stimulating the immune system. Chlorogenic acid is a phytochemical researched for its ability to aid weight loss by exhibiting anti-obesity properties and improving fat metabolism. L-Theanine is an amino acid that produces dopamine, the hormone responsible for producing a feeling of wellbeing. L-Theanine calms the mind while increasing alertness. It can increase focus, improve memory, and improve learning ability. Not bitter Guayusa has added health benefits beyond those of coffee and tea, tastes great, and does not have the bitterness sometimes associated with teas and yerba mates. Caffeine without jitters is why I’m after this shit. #MoreToCome